Software reliability prediction using machine learning techniques

Abstract

Software reliability is an indispensable part of software quality. Software industry endures various challenges in developing highly reliable software. Application of machine learning (ML) techniques for software reliability prediction has shown meticulous and remarkable results. In this paper, we propose the use of machine learning techniques for software reliability prediction and evaluate them based on selected performance criteria. We have applied ML techniques including adaptive neuro fuzzy inference system (ANFIS), feed forward backpropagation neural network (FFBPNN), general regression neural network (GRNN), support vector machines (SVM), multilayer perceptron (MLP), bagging, cascading forward backpropagation neural network (CFBPNN), instance-based learning (IBK), linear regression (Lin Reg), M5P, reduced error pruning tree (reptree), and M5Rules to predict the software reliability on various datasets being chosen from industrial software. Based on the experiments conducted, it was observed that ANFIS yields better results and it predicts the reliability more accurately and precisely as compared to all the above-mentioned techniques. In this study, we also made comparative analysis between cumulative failure data and inter failure time data and found that cumulative failure data give better and more promising results as compared to inter failure time data.